May is the best time to travel to Crete as the island isn't
crowded and nature is at its best. At this time of year you'll find a luscious green
Crete, full of wild flowers.

Visit the island again in October and you'll notice the difference;
it's dry everywhere! The summer sun, that so many visitors come to Crete for, has taking
its toll on the nature.

The weather in May is perfect for hiking and other outdoors activities
as the average temperature is around 28 degrees Celsius.

You don't even need to have a room booked before the main season. Just
arrive on the island, rent a car and explore an uncrowded Crete.

Locate the town you want to spend a few days in and ask around - to
find a really nice room.

Asking questions is a perfect way for you to find any kind of
information you need. Just be polite and greet people heartily. Learn how to say
"kalimera" (good-morning).

Everybody likes to hear a couple of words in their native language
from foreign visitors. Finally, use your instinct and imagination. Buy a good map and
choose the places that inspire you. Fill your car with petrol and enjoy.

Crete is an island with an exquisite 1,000
kilometre-long coastline dotted with numerous coves, bays and
peninsulas, which afford a multitude of soft, sandy beaches along the
beautifully blue Mediterranean Sea.

Sougia Info:
The small village of Sougia, in the south-west of Crete, has managed to remain unaffected
by the growth of tourism in Crete. It is still a peaceful haven, with a long beach, plenty
of good accommodation and great places to eat, all at prices below those found in most of
the island.

The Gorge of Samaria:
The gorge of Samaria is the second most popular tourist attraction in Crete (after the
Minoan palace of Knossos) and by far the most popular walk. More than a quarter million
people walk through the gorge every year from beginning of May to the end of October.

West
Crete:
A guide for independent travellers to Crete who want more than just lying in the sun at an
anonymous resort they saw in the brochure.